The Boat Builder
A master boat-builder in Saaremaa keeps a vanishing craft alive — one winter, one hull at a time.
About the Film
Ülo has been building wooden boats in the same workshop since 1973. He learned from his father, who learned from his. The workshop smells of pine resin and machine oil. Outside, the sea is visible through a small window that has never been cleaned. We filmed with him across three winters — watching him plane wood, drink tea, and refuse to explain himself.
He responded to the camera differently when it made noise. Like it was real.
Director's Note
I wanted to make a film about someone who simply does a thing with complete seriousness, without irony or self-consciousness. Ülo is that person. The 16mm was a practical choice — he responded to the camera differently when it made noise. Like it was real.
Behind the Scenes
Cast & Crew
Direction
- Karl Kask
Producing
- Fiimu OÜ
Camera
- Karl Kask
Sound & Music
- Jaan Mets
Editing & Post
- Mari Tamm
